What is the standard shortened statutory period for replying to an Office action on the merits?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. For most Office actions addressing the merits of a patent application, the USPTO sets a standard shortened statutory period. According to MPEP 710.02(b) , the period is 3 MONTHS To reply to any Office action on the merits. This three-month period provides applicants with sufficient time to review the examiner’s findings, conduct any necessary research, and prepare a comprehensive response while maintaining a reasonable pace for patent examination. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Shortened Statutory Period for Reply MPEP 710.02(b) Minimum Shortened Statutory Period Is 30 Days MPEP 710.02(b) Prohibited 6-Month Reply Period for Office Actions MPEP 710.01 Length of Shortened Statutory Period Depends on Reply Type MPEP 710.02(b) Required Shortened Statutory Period May Be Adjusted Under Rare Conditions MPEP 710.02(b) Permitted Shortened Statutory Period for Reply After Final Rejection and Advisory Action MPEP 714.13 2 Month Time Period for Inadvertent Omissions in Nonfinal Office Actions MPEP 710.02(b) Permitted Examiner Must Set Shortened Reply Period for Every Action MPEP 710.02(b) Examiner May Set Shortened Time Period for Omission Reply MPEP 710.01 Required New Shortened Statutory Period for Complete Reply MPEP 706.07(g) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the time period for replying to an Ex parte Quayle Office action? How does the USPTO handle amendments after final rejection in relation to statutory periods? Can the USPTO restart the period for reply if there&#8217;s an error in an Office action? What is an Ex parte Quayle action and how does it affect statutory periods? What are the exceptions to using a shortened statutory period in pa...